A menstrual cup is a flexible cup that is inserted into the vagina during a woman’s period. It’s like a tampon, but instead of absorbing the blood, it collects the blood and the cup can be reused. The cup is removed every 4 to 12 hours, depending on the flow and it is emptied and cleaned. The same cup is reinserted into the vagina. This is done until the periods are over. Then the cup should be cleaned and sterilized and stored for use the next month. It is advisable to sterilize it before using it again.

What material is the cup made of?
These cups are generally made of three materials. These materials are silicon, natural gum rubber or thermoplastic elastomer (TPE). Silicon menstrual cups are of a higher quality as they are made from medical grade silicon. Natural gum rubber has been known to trigger allergies caused due to latex. So, it is best to go for silicon menstrual cups. Choose a colored cup over a clear cup as blood stains may discolor clear cups, even after a wash. The cups these days are very soft and disposable options are available too.

How are menstrual cups used?
Once your period starts or you have symptoms of a period, tightly fold the sterilized cup and insert it into the vagina, like a tampon. An applicator is not required. The cup will fit into the vagina like a diaphragm or birth control ring. To remove it pull the stem which is sticking out at the bottom and pinch the base. Remove it, empty it and wash it with soap and water before you place it again. It is easier to remove and insert the cup while in a seated position, in the toilet.

The menstrual cup is friendly on the wallet. A reusable cup costs $30 to $40 and can last even up to 10 years. Panty liners or pads are not needed once you are comfortable with the cups and know how to use it. There is less odor too and it is safe.

There are some problems with cups too. They may cause irritation and can be messy if you don’t find the right fit and right way to remove them. It can also interfere with your IUD. Nevertheless, once you know how to use them they are very comfortable and handy.

Do menstrual cups reduce waste?
Not exactly as they are made of silicone or rubber. They reduce the waste pile up caused by menstrual pads and tampons. A menstrual cup can be used anywhere between 3 to 10 years. Over 3 years a person with average bleeding will use at least a minimum of 180 pads or tampons (5 pads for a menstrual flow of 3 days every month). When compared to one menstrual cup, that is a lot of waste. The plastic used in menstrual pads and tampons is not biodegradable, which sums up the issue. The cups go a long way in reducing biodegradable waste.